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VXCF4 vs VXCF9

7K views 20 replies 8 participants last post by  2006PSDSD 
#1 ·
So with my new SCT I checked the strategy and found it to be the VXCF4. Does anybody know if I need to update the strategy before I start installing programs or any other performace stuff. I plan on doing Bill's FICM remote reprogramming, will this change the stategy or do I have to pay the $100 to have the dealer do it. Thanks

:thumb:
 
#2 ·
You don't need to have the dealer reflash the truck prior to getting tuning, the tuners can write for any strategy.

BUT........

If you get custom FICM tuning, DO NOT let the dealer flash the truck after it is installed (you'll lose the custom tuning)

AND

If you have custom tunes written (say, for an SCT) they will be written for the strategy that the truck currently has. If that changes you'll need to have new tunes written (and some tuners will charge you for that, some (I've heard) will not :dunno:)
 
#3 ·
I'd update this strategy at the dealer to vxcf9. Only because you will want to realize the best benefits of the enhanced IDS software. My dealer only charged $32.
 
#4 ·
I've heard this both ways; some people are saying they have lost performance and economy after having their truck "re-flashed". The diesel tech at my local dealer yesterday said I shouldn't do anything to mine if I've had no problems as he has heard tons of complaints from people who have done it.

My dealer wants over $100 anyway...
 
#5 ·
Well doing some checking, It sounds as though PHP FICM retuning is using a earlier version of the ford strategy. Soooo I think I will leave it the way it is and just check the FICM for correct voltage.
 
#8 ·
Their FICM program probably takes things from the earlier flash that were good (fuel economy), then combines them with some from the new flash (better cold starts, EOT and ECT temp diff light). I'm planning on doing the PHP FICM tuning too :D

Mine was reflashed when a new turbo was installed recently and mileage and power went down.
How do I determine what flash I have?
Without an SCT or scan tool, I don't think you can :dunno:

Curious, do you know how old your previous flash was? I heard that the original 2003 flash had tons of economy and power but all after that went down. Mine is the one which buzzes the injectors on shutdown and I'm debating getting it updated.
The injector buzz is known as the FICM killer, I have it too, and want it gone :nod:
 
#7 ·
Curious, do you know how old your previous flash was? I heard that the original 2003 flash had tons of economy and power but all after that went down. Mine is the one which buzzes the injectors on shutdown and I'm debating getting it updated.
 
#10 ·
Thats good to hear. Any knowledge on the 4 series?
 
#11 ·
I had that on my truck for about 2 years. I did end up having to replace my FICM and currently have the VXCF9 code on it. I lost some mileage but don't know if it is from beating on new tunes for a studded truck the the VXCF9 code. I have always driven it hard though and I have lost about 8/10's mpg.
 
#13 ·
Not having any cold start issues but it is runnning "rich" when I let it idle to warm up on a cold day.:dunno:
 
#15 ·
It is a different one entirely. The VXCF4 is the earliest of the inductive heat codes IIRC. The IH strategy became more aggressive in subsequent revs. As a result the FICM would get hot enough for the solder to flow loosening connections. My FICM failed with the VXCF4 code. This is not the code that buzzes the injectors AFTER shutdown though.
 
#16 ·
Called the dealer and they want $110 to reflash. My buddy can get it done for $50. So the question is, is it really worth it to go and do this?
 
#17 ·
I had a version that really buzzed hard at startup and again at shut down then the most recent changed it to a slight buzz at startup and no buzz at shut down. My mileage dropped from 21 highway no load to 17
This was done Feb 2009.
Also the one I have now does vary the idle up and down when just idling it also after starting it runs the Idle about 900 to 1000 rpm until it is warmed up
 
#18 ·
OK, called up PHP and Bill told me to leave the current flash (4 series). Also went ahead and ordered thier remote FICM tuning along with some custom tunes for my SCT. Might as well, the dealer informed me my truck went out of warranty Feb 25th. Not sure if this is good or bad? START THE MODDING!!!!!!!!!!!

:thumb::icon_ford:
 
#19 ·
I didn't think Bill would have any tuners for the remote for at least a week, that's what their site said any way :dunno:. You'll have to post for us CO guys, and tell us what you find about teh FICM tuning :nod:. I swear our elevation has a lot to do with our mpg's
 
#20 ·
IDK with my dually all the better I got (babying it on the highway) was 16. Im hoping this does SOMETHING
 
#21 ·
I get around 17 driving like Miss Daisy :hehe:. 20 mpg would be SWEET!

You gonna revisit the CSP chat thread? I responded to your questions :D
 
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